For years, Ontarians have relied on Freedom of Information as one of the only real tools to hold those in power accountable — a vital way for journalists, researchers, and everyday citizens to look behind the curtain of government decisions.

The proposed changes to exempt the Premier’s office, cabinet ministers, and their staff from FOI laws would make it significantly harder for the public to see how decisions are made, how public money is spent, and what is happening behind closed doors.

This is a serious expansion of secrecy that will lead to more delays, more redactions, and greater barriers between the public and the truth, especially amid ongoing concerns about the use of personal devices and encrypted messaging for government business.

Transparency is not a burden; it is a democratic obligation!

When access to information is weakened, accountability is weakened with it.

Ontarians have a right to know, and we call on you to stop these changes and protect the public’s ability to hold its government accountable.